Sarah Ahmadi: Executive Director

Executive Director: Sarah R. Ahmadi

Ms. Ahmadi is a seasoned professional in the area of organizational development and administration. With close to three decades of experience in fund advancement and marketing, systems and planning she brings both knowledge and familiarity with administrative structures, development and marketing as well as team-building skills. Her experience includes working with international funding organizations, not-for-profit management, marketing, fundraising and publications and working through challenges facing organizations that seek to embody and encourage positive change in the world.

Giving back to the community and investing in the lives of the next generation has been a particular focus and passion for Ms. Ahmadi. She has held, and continues to hold, leadership positions in not-for-profit organizations that address the educational and training needs of young men and women in both high performance and recreational activities. It is her privilege and pleasure to be able to apply her experience and expertise within the environment of Pro Arte Centre to encourage a new emerging generation of leaders in the fields associated with performing arts.

A few thoughts from Ms. Ahmadi’s blog:

It matters not what you are thought to be, but what you are. Maxim 785. Publius Syrus. (42 B.C.)

I end all of my email communication with this quote. It reminds me that each of us must live our lives with authenticity, true to the values that we hold dear — disregarding the expectations of others — even those who are dear to us.

Why is this important?

At the risk of sounding clichéd, life is short and each moment is to be treasured. Every experience is one that should be affirming, building and nurturing both ourselves and others. One is not capable of achieving this end if one spends one’s time second-guessing the thoughts and opinions of others. I guess that this quote resonates strongly as it underscores that we — or I — must be more concerned with pursuing our goals with passion, striving for excellence. Our values and our purpose that we hold paramount must remain fully in sight, and our daily work – our engagement with others – must build and support achieving these ends.